Choosing a monocular for bird watching can be difficult. With all the technical jargon that you may not understand unless you’re well versed in the world of telescopes, it can be hard to know what to look for. That’s why I’ve put together this guide detailing the 3 best monoculars for bird watching on the market. 

I’ve also answered some commonly asked questions about monoculars. To discover more, read on! 

Best Compact Option

Opticron 30440 BGA 8×42 Monocular

This monocular is the most compact, meaning that you can just pop it in your pocket or bag and take it wherever you need it. At just 9.9oz and measuring at 13.72 x 4.57 x 4.32 cm, you don’t have to worry about it taking up valuable space when heading out bird watching. 

It’s available in many lens diameters, so you can choose which magnification you prefer. It’s powered by 1 AA battery, so you don’t have to worry about running out of power as you can keep a spare on you without taking up space. 

This compact monocular for bird watching is waterproof up to 5m, meaning if you get caught in a typical UK rainstorm then you can still use it to see the wildlife. It also comes with a carry case and a lanyard, as well as caps for the main objective and an eyepiece to keep it safe whilst you’re out and about. 

One thing I love about this waterproof monocular for bird watching is that it’s built with glasses wearers in mind! A rare find, the eyepiece has 2 modes, one for glasses wearers and one for those who don’t wear them. 

Reviewers rave about the high-quality image and focus of this compact monocular, you can really get up close and personal with the wildlife, from a safe distance of course!

Pros:

• Compact and light
• 8 options to choose from
• Powered by 1 AA battery
• Waterproof
• Carry case and lanyard included
• Built with glasses wearers in mind! 

Cons:

• Some reviewers have commented that the focus ring is stiff initially, but this loosens with use

Best Budget Option

DFlamepower 10×42 HD Monocular

It can be hard to find a budget monocular without compromising on quality, but I think this monocular does an impressive job. This monocular for bird watching is made of rubber making it fairly durable, so you won’t have to worry about it getting broken by being loose in your bag on a hike. 

There’s an anti-drop hand strap to place around your wrist when holding the monocular, with rubber armour that makes it easier to hold within your hand.  It also comes with a microfibre cleaning cloth for the lens and a carrying bag. Waterproof enough to use in the rain, with dual focus capabilities suitable for glasses wearers too. 

The lens is coated with a green film and Bak-4 prisms, which makes your view brighter and clearer. It also has a focus wheel that you can easily turn with one hand, which allows you to see things up to 1000 yards away. 

Reviewers have commented on the excellent quality of this monocular, despite its affordable price point!

Pros:

• Budget-friendly
• Rubber armour
• Anti-drop hand strap
• Waterproof
• Dual focus for glasses wearers

Cons:

• Doesn’t quite compare to higher-end products

Best High-End Option

Bushnell 191142 Legend Ultra HD Monocular

The Bushnell 191143 Legend is the best high-end option on the market. It’s not the smallest or lightest option, but it’s still portable. However, with 10 x magnification power, it’s hard to complain. ED Prime glass, PC-3 Phase-Coated prisms and fully multi-coated optics ensure that you get bright and clear views that are of unrivalled quality.

Not only is this monocular waterproof, but it’s fog proof too meaning you can use it in any weather condition without your view being affected. It works well in lower light conditions, as it transmits plenty of light through the objective lens.

The eyecups are adjustable so that you can be comfortable when holding them against your eye for longer periods of time. The front lens cap is removable but is also on a hinge. This means that it can be used as a sunshield on those brighter days when the sun may affect your view. 

One of the things that I love about this monocular is that you can easily attach it to a tripod with its built-in picca rail. This gives you more stability to view the wildlife if you know that you’ll be staying in one place for a length of time. 

All reviewers have commented on the excellent clarity that’s even better than expected. 

Pros:

• Extremely impressive optics
• Waterproof and fog proof
• Adjustable eyecups
• Hinged front lens
• Easily attach to multiple accessories

Cons:

• Not the lightest or smallest of monoculars
• No batteries included

Monocular vs Binoculars: Which Should I Use?

Monoculars and binoculars are both powerful magnification tools that can help you spot wildlife and beautiful birds from a long distance away. 

Monoculars are much more lightweight and compact, making it easier to take them on outdoor trips with you. If you’re hiking to a sightseeing spot, you need to make sure that you save valuable backpack space for water, snacks and anything you may need in case of emergency.

This means that monoculars are much easier to take with you as they don’t take up much space and some are even small enough to keep in your pocket or attach to a belt loop! Despite their small size, monoculars can have up to a huge 10 x magnification, making them a powerful tool for bird watching. 

However, with a monocular instead of binoculars, you can only use one eye. Although this may not be a problem for many, some people may prefer to get the whole picture using both eyes for a more immersive experience.

Although, I’ve found that if you’re a glasses wearer like myself where each eye is at a different prescription, I actually prefer just using one eye. 

A monocular can also be more comfortable to hold than traditional binoculars, it also leaves one hand free to note down your sightings or take a sip of a hot beverage. 

When it comes to birdwatching, a monocular is a more popular choice with enthusiasts. However, if you’re looking at a general view and just taking in the scenery, binoculars will offer the wider picture. 

How Far Can A Monocular See?

Monoculars tend to have a magnification power between 6x and 10x,  higher optical magnification will allow you to see further into the distance. 

Monoculars will often have their magnification option listed within the product specification. When looking at this, you will see 2 numbers. The first number is the magnification and the second is the lens size. The bigger the lens size, the wider the view available.

For example, a specification of 8×25 will mean that the monocular has 8 x magnification with an eyepiece lens size of 25mm. This means that the object in view will appear 8 times larger than it would with your naked eye. 

The distance you can see will depend on the quality of the bird-watching monocular that you choose. On average, monoculars can see around 5 miles into the distance, but for specifics check the specification of the product. 

I hope that after reading this guide, you’ve found all the information you’re looking for and can begin your journey to spotting some fantastic birds! 

It originated in Asia a decade ago and has recently become popular with people who are looking for a creative hobby, or need to take some time out to relax and soothe their mind.

If you’re in the UK and wondering where to buy diamond kits, or looking for a new kit to complete, I’ve put together a list of decent diamond painting kits and answered some commonly asked questions too.

Best Place To Get 5D Diamond Painting Kits in the UK

Amazon UK (Click to see current kits)

The best place to get a 5D diamond painting kit at the moment is undoubtedly Amazon, with the most variety and painting kits for both adults and kids, you’re bound to find one you can complete either alone or as a family activity.

For example, this Wolf Pattern can be completed by people of all ages. The surface of the diamond has 17 square sections that makes the diamonds easier to hold and keeps them looking bright and shiny and makes the painting really stand out.

The oil painting canvas has a clear film cover to keep the canvas sticky whilst you complete the picture and a protective film to cover it to stop the diamonds from falling off.

Custom 5D Diamond Painting Kits (Also on Amazon)

This diamond painting custom photo kit allows you to upload a photo of your choice, which will then be adjusted by a designer to be clear and fit the frame size.

It comes with everything you need to turn your special picture into a diamond painting, including the diamonds, diamond pen tool, art canvas and organising tray. This kit would make a perfect gift for someone, or give you an opportunity to turn a treasured photo into a lovely piece of art.

We also have another recommendation below if you want to look at other custom diamond painting kits.

Pros:

• So many different styles to choose from, including kits to customise a photo of your choice
• Most kits come with everything you need to complete the picture (always check the description to be sure)
• Kits for many skill levels, from kids/beginners to adults and experts
• Amazon always have fast delivery times

Cons:

• As with anything from Amazon, make sure that you read the description and reviews so you know exactly what you’re paying for. Some sellers may not put all the information in the description

Cheapest Diamond Painting Kit in the UK

This 5D Diamond Painting Kit by Lidiper is very reasonably priced for such a good quality image. There are 5 different designs, each one is colourful and unique and will complement any room in your home. Choose from the cutest kitten with a butterfly on its nose, a family of giraffes with sunglasses or something else entirely.

The kit comes with a thick, waterproof canvas with a film cover that is designed to keep the canvas sticky  and help hold the diamonds in place whilst you finish your masterpiece.

The diamonds themselves have a rounded bottom, with 17 sections to make the picture stand out and the kit comes with everything you need to complete the painting. The picture itself is easy to follow, with each letter on the painting corresponding to a diamond colour making it a great activity to do alone or as a family.

Pros:

• 5 designs to choose from
• Comes with everything you need – high definition 30 x 30cm canvas, cube glue, drill pen, diamond tray and colourful diamonds
• Easy to follow
• Perfect as a calming, individual activity or as fun for the family

Cons:

• The canvas itself isn’t sticky, so you have to stick each individual diamond onto the canvas with glue

Best Full Drill Diamond Kits in the UK

Full Drill Diamond Painting Kits by Paint with Diamonds (Click to see current stock)

If you’re looking for kits that give a more sparkling effect to the finished picture, go for a full drill diamond kit (full drill refers to the diamonds covering the entirety of the canvas).

For example, this version of Starry Night, the famous painting by Van Gogh, is one of my favourite kits as the finished result is just so beautiful. You can choose from rounded or square diamonds which will provide different effects.

A rounded diamond will give a ‘cross-stitched look’ and leave little gaps in the picture, whereas the square diamonds will look more like mosaics, both look great – it just depends on which you prefer.

The iconic ‘The Kiss’ by Gustav Klimt has also been recreated as a diamond painting, providing you with more of a challenge and leaving you with a stunning art piece once finished.

You can choose the size of the picture you want to work on, the bigger the canvas you go for the sharper the details will be.

Something I love about the company that sells these full drill diamond kits (paintwithdiamonds.com) is that if something goes wrong with your kit, you lose some diamonds, or you make a mistake, they will replace the picture for free.

Pros:

• The company will replace your kit if something goes wrong
• Plenty of pictures to choose from, from landscape scenes to recreations of famous paintings
• Choose the canvas size
• Comes with everything you need
• Lifetime satisfaction guarantee
• Free delivery to the UK

Cons:

• Full drill kits may not be suitable for beginners as they need a bit more precision

Best Place To Get Custom Diamond Kits

PaintWithDiamonds Custom Kits (Click to check latest offers)

Not only are they the best place to get Full Drill Kits, paintwithdiamonds.com are the best place to get Custom Diamond Kits too.

They offer a variety of sizes and a range of styles to choose from, including one picture across different canvases. I love this custom kit that allows you to spread one picture of your choosing across 3 canvases that’d make a great feature piece on your walls, why not turn your wedding pictures into something even more spectacular?

They also offer a JUMBO Custom Diamond Kit that allows you to recreate a group picture without losing any detail due to the large size of the canvas. Again, you can choose between square or rounded diamonds and the kit comes with everything you need.

The company takes away any pressure of making sure your photo is perfect as they will ensure that the subject of your photo is the main focus of the diamond painting, that no details are lost and they will enhance the colour balance so there are no odd diamond colours in your picture.

Pros:

• The company will enhance your photo to ensure that your diamond painting kit doesn’t lose any details and will look the best it can
• Choose from a variety of sizes, from 20 x 30cm to 120 x 90cm
• They also do different styles of kit, spreading one picture over 3 or 5 different rectangular canvases to create a unique piece
• Kit includes everything you need
• Lifetime satisfaction guarantee

Cons:

• Again, may not be suitable for beginners

Best Disney Diamond Painting Kits

If you have a little one that loves Disney, or even love it yourself, then this Disney Diamond Painting Kit by Joydiy may be one for you.

It’s a full drill kit with rounded diamonds and a high quality image that is clear depicting the disney castle, with Mickey and Minnie Mouse in a boat. The canvas is waterproof, eco-friendly and has a special protective covering that ensures the finished picture will last for years to come.

Again, it comes with everything you need to complete the scene and framing it once finished would make it really stand out and add a lovely finishing touch.

It also comes with extra diamonds, which is great as it’s easy to lose a few when you’re working. Reviewers have said that the finished picture is lovely and the design is really easy to follow.

Pros:

• Everything included
• Full drill kit with rounded diamonds
• Waterproof and eco-friendly canvas
• Comes with extra diamonds
• Design is easy to follow
• Comes with tweezers that make it easy to remove diamonds that have been placed wrong or have fallen onto the picture by mistake

Cons:

• The instructions are printed around the border of the picture, so if you want to display the finished product then you may have to frame it to hide them

What Is Diamond Painting?

Diamond painting has recently grown in popularity and it involves following instructions to complete a picture painted with multi-faceted diamonds – similar to a paint by numbers! Painting with diamonds in this way makes the picture stand out, and gives it a 3D effect.

What’s The Difference Between 3D And 5D Diamond Painting?

You may be confused as to what the difference is between 3D diamond painting and 5D diamond painting, and it all comes down to the style of diamonds provided in the kit.

3D diamonds have 3 facets on each side, whereas 5D diamonds have 5. The more facets a diamond has – the more sparkling the effect will be.

How Do I Paint With Diamonds?

Diamond painting isn’t as complicated as it looks and a lot of kits come with easy to follow instructions. All you have to do is apply the corresponding diamond to the picture using tweezers or the diamond applicator tool, placing them as close together as possible.

Something to note is that the canvases often come with a protective film, especially if the canvas is sticky. It’s important not to fully remove the film completely, instead only remove it from the part that you’re working on. If you take the film off completely, the canvas can be exposed to dust and dirt particles and it can also dry out meaning that your crystals won’t stick.

Remember to recover the painting when you stop working on it too so that it doesn’t dry out – although this won’t be an issue if your kit has glue with it and each individual diamond needs to be glued down.

After reading this article, I hope you’ve found all the information that you’re looking for. Whether you’re a diamond painting newbie or it’s something you’ve been doing for years, I hope you find a kit that you like and treat yourself to some relaxing, ‘me-time’. Have fun!

Here, I’ll suggest the best nursing dresses for different occasions from weddings to casual summer dresses. I struggled to find suitable dresses, especially ones that washed well and kept their shape.

I’ve also given some tips on what to wear other than dresses when it comes to nursing.

Best Formal Dress for Nursing

V-Neck Dress by Purpless Maternity

This ruched, V neck dress by Purpless Maternity has ¾ length sleeves and ruching to the side, which gives it a really elegant look.

The dress itself is made from 95% viscose and 5% elastane so it’s really comfortable and will flatter your figure as well as being easy to wash if you leak.

The neckline isn’t hemmed, so it allows you to pull it to the side and nurse with ease, no matter where you are.

The dress comes in 6 different colours, so there will be one for whatever occasion you decide to wear it. It can also be worn with leggings or jeans as a long top if you prefer!

Pros:

• Easy to nurse in
• Comfortable material that’s flattering on any figure
• Easy to wash (machine washable)
• Easy to iron
• 6 colours
• Allows for room for growing bump if you purchase before giving birth

Cons:

• Colour is darker than the one shown
• Creases easily

Best Nursing-Friendly Dress for a Wedding in the UK

Happy Mama Nursing Maxi Dress

If you want a bargain as well as a nursing-friendly dress to wear to a wedding, then this dress by HAPPY MAMA is a stylish maxi dress you should consider.

I particularly like that it’s finished with a tie around the waist to cinch you in and flatter your body shape.

It has short sleeves, hangs well at the front and comes in 30 different styles, from florals, to stripes, to plain colours so it definitely looks formal enough for a wedding.

Depending on the style, it’s either made from 95% Viscose and 5% Elastane, or 100% Polyester meaning that it’s quick-drying if you were to leak during the day.

These fabrics are also easy to wash as you can just throw them in the washing machine.

The dress itself allows for ease of nursing with the top just pulling to the side, but it’s subtle about it – it doesn’t look like a nursing dress at all!

Pros:

• Subtle, ease of nursing design
• Waist tie
• Formal
• 30 different styles
• Machine washable
• Quick drying fabric
• Short sleeved
• Allows for room for growing bump
• Heavy stretch fabric

Cons:

• Those under 5”5 have said the dress is too long to be worn without heels, but the fabric is easy to hem

Best Breastfeeding Dress in the UK For A Special Occasion

Smallshow Nursing Dress

This nursing dress by Smallshow features a round neckline, ¾ length sleeves and 2 pockets.

It comes in 7 different styles and the sizes go all the way up to a size 22, which is a huge plus as it can be extremely difficult to find plus size nursing dresses or nursing dresses for those with larger chests. I was overweight after I had my second baby and was so happy to find this!

It’s made of really soft fabric so it’s comfortable, lightweight and falls nicely from the waist. It can be dressed up for a special occasion, or dressed down with a pair of leggings or tights.

It can even be worn after you’ve weaned your baby as it doesn’t look like a nursing clothing at all.

It’s easy to nurse – the dress has a flap in the upper part of the dress, which can be lifted up to expose your breast and feed your baby easily and discreetly.

With its high neckline, it’s modest and will ensure that you feel covered. It’s machine washable and can be put in the tumble dryer on a low heat too to get rid of any milk or sick stains.

Pros:

• Comfortable and modest
• Flap that lifts up for easy and discreet nursing
• Size range from 8 – 22
• Lightweight
• Machine washable
• Can be put in the tumble dryer
• Can be ironed
• 7 colour options
• Pockets

Cons:

• The length can differ on different heights, for some it is above the knee, others it is below

Best Nursing Maxi Dress in the UK

OUGES Nursing / Breastfeeding Maxi Dress

This maxi dress by OUGES comes in a variety of different colours and styles, with all different sleeve lengths.

It’s made from 94% Polyester and 6% Elastane which means that it’s a comfortable and stretchy fabric that won’t cling to you in the wrong places.

It has a V neck and waist tie as well as a hidden zipper on the side and it even has pockets! It gives off a really classy look that can be worn to the beach, on a date night or just around the house.

The sizes go up to 3XL – which is the equivalent to a UK 22-24.

Although this dress isn’t explicitly a nursing/maternity dress, with the belted wrap in the chest area of the dress it makes it really easy to nurse your baby without having to take anything off.

The material will stretch at the neckline to pull it aside and expose your breast, then once you’re finished feeding your baby it springs right back into shape.

Pros:

• Stretchy material that snaps back into place and makes nursing easy
• Up to 3XL (UK 22-24)
• Machine washable on a cold wash
• Pockets
• V neck and waist tie gives a classy look
• Zipper on the side

Cons:

• Customers who wear smaller sizes (UK 6-8) have said that size S is too large for them
• Not long enough for taller women (5”10+)

Best Nursing Summer Dress

Mamalicious Maternity Nursing Dress
(Check Price at ASOS)

You no longer have to choose between comfort and style with this maternity nursing dress by Mamalicious.

It comes in a gorgeous black and white abstract print with a point collar, tie waist and ruffle skirt that looks super fashionable as well as being comfortable.

You can dress it up with a pair of heels or boots, or dress it down with a pair of trainers.

It’s a button-down shirt dress, which means that when it comes to nursing you can quickly undo a few buttons to breastfeed without having to struggle taking things off.

The dress itself is made from lightweight viscose which will keep you cool during the warmer months, drapes well, is breathable and highly absorbent too – so it’ll soak up any milk leaks and the dark colour pattern will hide it well too so there’s no need to feel self conscious!

Pros:

• Both stylish and comfortable
• Button down which makes it easy to nurse baby
• Made from lightweight viscose – great for summer
• Absorbent and darker colour pattern means leaks will be hidden well
• Machine washable

Cons:

• Length can be awkward on petite women (5”2 and below)

Tips On How To Dress When Breastfeeding

Before becoming a mother, the ease of exposing your breasts may not be something you’ve thought about when buying pieces for your maternity wardrobe.

When you’re taking care of a baby, the need to nurse can arise at any time so it’s important to ensure that your clothes are both comfortable and convenient.

Aside from the dresses above, there are a few more things to consider that will make your life a whole lot easier when it comes to breastfeeding your baby:

Nursing Bras

Not many new mums realize the importance of a nursing bra. Pulling up a regular bra to expose your breast can put unnecessary pressure on your breast that can lead to clogged milk ducts (source: Clothing and Textile Research Journal).

Nursing bras are a lot easier to latch and unlatch at the cups and are made of absorbent fabric which is great, as although nursing pads can help, they’re not 100% effective and milk is likely to leak through to your bra.

Vest Tops

Vest tops that are made from stretchy materials make the perfect nursing top, as you can just pull them down to nurse.

They can be worn under things that aren’t made for nursing, such as jumpers, but keep you covered and comfortable.

Sleeping Nursing Bras

Although you may not usually wear a bra to bed, when you’re nursing it can be a good idea to wear one to keep your breast pads in place, as you’re most likely to leak during the night due to the higher levels of prolactin (source: NHS).

The difference between normal nursing bras and sleeping ones is that the ones you wear to bed don’t have the latch at the front – you can just pull them down to save fiddling around in the dark.

Nursing Sleepwear

As well as a nursing bra, you may want to consider nursing sleepwear that is specially made for nursing, such as a nightgown. This will help you to nurse as easily as possible and get back to sleep once you’re done.

Button down shirts/dresses

f you don’t want to wear clothes that are made for nursing, then opting for dresses or shirts that have buttons can be a good idea as you just undo a few buttons and you’re ready to go.

A wrap dress or top would work well too.

Tip: Add a scarf! One of my favourite tips from nursing mothers is to add a scarf to your outfit.

Scarves can give you more privacy when nursing if you’re not comfortable doing it out in the open, and it saves you carrying a modesty blanket with you everywhere.

There are also a few things that you probably shouldn’t wear when you’re nursing:

• Jumpsuits/Playsuits
• Regular, underwired bras
• Extremely tight tops
• Multiple layers

After reading this article, I hope you’ve found all the information that you were looking for.

Good luck on your nursing journey – you’ve got this!

I’m both a redhead AND I have sensitive skin, so I choose my sun protection carefully.

Having delicate skin is frustrating and more so when the very product that’s supposed to protect and improve your skin is actually making it irritating, and giving you sore eyes.

Thankfully there are plenty of sunscreens on the market that have been formulated with sensitive faces in mind.

In this article, I’ve suggested the best options for your skin type and answered some important questions about the best sunscreens for the UK – yes, despite our weather, you DO need it, even if you’re not jetting off to sunnier places!

Best Sunscreens For Sensitive Eyes in the UK

La Roche-Posay SPF 50+
(Check Amazon’s Price)

This sunscreen by La Roche-Posay is a rare find as it’s specially formulated for those with sensitive, dry skin and eyes.

I use it because I was sick of my eyes stinging in hot weather when the sunscreen ran into my eyes with sweat (lovely, I know).

Fragrances are one of the most irritating ingredients for sensitive skin types, but this sunscreen has no perfumes or fragrances.

It has a very high, broad spectrum of UVA and UVB protection with an SPF of 50+ and also protects against certain infrared rays and atmospheric pollutants. You may not need an SPF this high, but I’d still recommend it.

The cream itself is waterproof which means that you can be out in the sun, sweating and it won’t transfer into your eyes and cause irritation.

It also acts as a moisturiser for very dry skin too, so you don’t have to double up on products and risk breaking out, it also doesn’t leave a white sheen like a lot of high protection sunscreens so you can wear it underneath makeup too!

Pros:

• Formulated for both sensitive skin and eyes
• SPF 50+
• Protection against UVA and UVB rays, as well as some infrared and atmospheric pollutants
• Waterproof
• Doubles up as a moisturiser
• No white cast left over face
• Non-comedogenic

Cons:

• Pump can be stiff
• Only 50ml, although some reviewers have said that this has lasted them a year!

The Best UK Sunscreen that Doesn’t Sting Eyes

Toddle Sun And Wind Balm
(Check Amazon’s Price)

If you have kids and want a non-stinging sunscreen for both your eyes AND one that’s good enough to use on children, then this Sun and Wind Balm by Toddle is a good family choice.

It has an SPF of 50+ and offers protection from UVA and UVB rays. UVB rays are the ones responsible for sunburn, whilst UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and cause damage that way, so it’s important to be protected from both.

There’s no artificial perfumes or fragrances, instead, there is added lemon and geranium oil that provides a pleasant scent but won’t irritate the skin with chemical fragrances.

It’s water-resistant too so it’s perfect for kids who love to run in and out of the water and splash around as you don’t have to chase them around for a top-up – this will stay put.

It also means that there’s no risk of eye irritation if they rub their eyes with wet hands!

One of my favourite things about this sunscreen is it’s packed full of natural active ingredients, such as Vitamin E which works well as a moisturiser for any skin type – so it won’t dry out even the most sensitive of skin and cause irritation.

If you have sensitive skin, you should avoid chemical sunscreens and opt for more natural protection like this sunscreen.

The Ingredients found in chemical sunscreens are known to cause reactions and worsen already painful skin problems and this is one of the products that avoids this issue.

This is also vegan and comes in biodegradable packaging too so it’s good for the environment too.

I ought to reiterate, it’s not just for kids, adults with sensitive eyes and skin have tried this sunscreen and loved it too, judging by the reviews.

One reviewer who has albinism said that despite them having extremely sensitive skin and burning practically all year round, this product stopped them burning and didn’t irritate their skin either!

Pros:

• Vegan and cruelty free
• Biodegradable packaging
• All natural ingredients
• SPF 50+ as well as UVA and UVB protection
• No artificial scents
• Great for children (or adults) with eczema
• Can use all over the body

Cons:

• Can leave a white residue on the skin
• Some people can find the lemon scent overpowering, but most have said that they get used to it

The Best Sunscreen For Sensitive Faces in the UK

Neutrogena Face Sunscreen
(Check Amazon’s Price)

If you want more of an all-round sunscreen for your face, rather than just your eyes, then I’d consider this sunscreen. Neutrogena are well known for their skincare products and this facial sunscreen is dermatologically recommended.

It is zinc oxide based, which is great as zinc oxide is known for its antibacterial properties that will help heal burns and acne, and its ability to keep moisture locked in the skin, so there’s a lower risk of your skin becoming dried out and irritated.

It has SPF 50+ and broad spectrum protection from UVA and UVB and has a formula that is specially made for sensitive skin types.

It’s hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, PABA free, free from irritating ingredients, and also oil-free, so it could work well for oily skin – although if you’re looking for a specific product for oily skin then I recommend one of those later in this article.

It absorbs well into the skin, instead of sitting on top and feeling like you’re wearing a mask!

This sunscreen for the face is also waterproof for up to 80 minutes, so you don’t have to worry about it rubbing off and irritating your skin if there’s a sudden burst of rain or anything like that!

One woman who suffers from rosacea said in the reviews that this is the only sunscreen that doesn’t further irritate her skin and cause a flare-up, so it’s suitable for those with skin conditions too.

Pros:

• Dermatologically recommended
• 100% naturally sourced ingredients
• Contains Zinc Oxide
• Broad spectrum protection from UVA and UVB rays
• Hypoallergenic and fragrance, oil and PABA free
• Can be worn alone or under makeup
• Suitable for those with skin conditions, although always consult a GP or dermatologist first!

Cons:

• Small bottle – only 40ml
• Can leave a white residue, possibly not suitable for those with darker skin under makeup!

The Best Mineral-Based Sunscreen for the Face in the UK

Heliocare Mineral Tolerance Fluid Sunscreen
(Check Amazon’s Price)

This mineral sunscreen by Heliocare has an SPF of 50+ and PA++++ so you know you’re protected against all kinds of sun rays.

It also offers protection from visible light and infrared-A rays, as well as free radicals and DNA damage.

Heliocare has a unique ingredient of antioxidant Fernblock FC to protect your skin from within by repairing enzymes to protect your skin cell DNA.

One of my favourite things about this sunscreen is, unlike other high protection sunscreens – this one doesn’t leave a white film on your face.

It absorbs into your skin quickly and dries clear, so it’s great if you have a darker skin tone as it can be worn alone or under makeup without altering the appearance of your skin colour.

This mineral sunscreen also has a matte finish, rather than leaving a sheen so it’s great for men with sensitive skin who don’t want to look too ‘glowy’!

Finally, this Heliocare sunscreen is dermatologically tested, hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic, water-resistant, and alcohol and oil-free so it won’t irritate sensitive skin, with one sensitive skinned reviewer saying that she wouldn’t be without this product!

Pros:

• Lightweight formula and absorbs quickly
• Doesn’t leave a white residue
• Protects the skin’s surface and protects from within due to the Fernblock FC
• SPF 50+ and PA++++ rated
• Dermatologically tested
• Non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic
• Water resistant
• Alcohol and oil free

Cons:

• Have to shake the product well before every use, otherwise it separates and is oily
• Some people have said that this product has a strange smell

Best Face Sunscreen For Oily Skin in the UK

Heliocare Oil Free Gel Sunscreen
(Check Amazon’s Price)

Finding a sunscreen that suits oily skin is no easy task as slathering a thick layer of sunscreen that’s full of oil on to your face sounds like a nightmare when you already suffer from an overproduction of oil.

Luckily, there are sunscreens that have been formulated with oily skin in mind – such as this one, also by Heliocare.

It has all the same benefits as the one listed previously but is made specifically for oily skin rather than just sensitive skin.

Opting for a gel formula rather than a cream means that the product will absorb better into the skin and not leave a heavy film that feels like it’s suffocating your skin.

This is lightweight and oil-free sunscreen that dries matte and actually reduces the appearance of shine and leaves skin dry to the touch – you could even use it as a mattifying primer underneath makeup!

If you have a combination skin type that’s both dry and oily, then you may want to moisturise prior to using this sunscreen as it can leave skin feeling tight due to the mattifying effect.

Pros:

• Perfect for oily/acne prone skin as it mattifies the skin as well as providing sun protection
• Lightweight and absorbs quickly
• Doesn’t leave a white residue
• Protects the skin’s surface and protects from within due to the Fernblock FC
• SPF 50+ and PA++++ rated
• Dermatologically tested
• Non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic
• Water resistant
• Alcohol and oil free

Cons:

• Sticky when first applied
• Only 50ml – although this means it can be taken as hand luggage!

Should You Wear Sunscreen Every Day In The UK?

We all know that the UK’s climate isn’t exactly tropical, and it’s very rare that we have consistent sunny days throughout the summer, but that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t wear sunscreen if it’s not sunny outdoors.

Although we don’t have a high risk of burning from the sun all year round, the sun still emits UV rays that can be damaging to your skin and cause premature ageing and skin cancer later in life no matter the weather!

UV rays can penetrate through the clouds, so even if it’s cloudy outside you should be wearing sunscreen – especially if you’re pale like me and/or have a lot of moles or freckles.

If you use direct acids or retinoids in your skincare routine, you should be extra careful with your sun protection as these products can cause extra sensitivity to the sun and increase your risk of burning or damage to your skin.

Consider a higher rated SPF and a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face completely in the Summer.

A lot of makeup products and moisturisers now have SPF built in, but incorporating an extra sunscreen into your daily routine is definitely a good idea, no matter the weather outside.

Is SPF 15 Strong Enough Sunscreen In The UK?

It can be difficult to know what factor of sunscreen to use here in the UK.

NICE (the National Institution For Health And Clinical Excellence) recommends that factor 15 is enough in the UK as long as you are applying it sufficiently.

Sunscreen should be applied thickly, and if you are worried that you aren’t applying it thickly enough then you should opt for a higher SPF rating.

If you’re at a higher risk of burning or are applying sunscreen to a child, then you should use an SPF of at least 30, but many doctors recommend 50+ just to be on the safe side.

One of my friends, who is black and of Caribbean descent, still uses 30+ SPF to protect her skin. Even if you’re someone who doesn’t burn, you can still do invisible damage.

Babies under the age of 6 months should not be using sunscreen and instead should be kept in the shade at all times and dressed in protective clothing.

Although factor 15 is sufficient, you should always bear in mind personal circumstances and consider your outdoor activities before choosing an SPF – there’s no harm in going a little higher to be on the safe side.

Remember, when it comes to sun protection it’s always better to be on the safe side and you should avoid direct, intense sun exposure wherever possible – especially when the sun’s rays are at their strongest, even in the UK!

With so many different options out there it can be a little overwhelming, so I’ve put together a guide for those looking for the best telescopes for beginners, including the best options and where to buy from.

This was written in conjunction with my friend Fabian, who has built a giant telescope in his back garden in Warrington. No, he’s not a beginner, but he was once – and helped me put together this guide.

Best Astronomical Telescope For Beginners in the UK

Binocular and Tripod Beginner Bundle
(Check Orion’s Price)

This 15×70 Astronomical Binocular and HD-F2 Tripod Bundle by Orion is an ideal option for beginners as it’s practical, lightweight and easy to set up.

Because the setup is binoculars rather than a telescope, it’s suitable for all the family, including the kids, as it’s easier to understand and look through.

In the UK, it’s very rare that we have a clear night sky – especially if you live in the city – so what’s great about this particular model is that with the 70mm objective lenses and 15-power magnification, you’ll still get a great view of the skies no matter where you live.

The included tripod ensures that you get a stable view and the binoculars can follow star clusters with smooth movement.

It also ensures that you arms don’t tire out from holding the binoculars for long periods of time, just attach them to the tripod instead!

The tripod is adjustable and the binoculars have an 18mm eye relief so it doesn’t matter if you’re tall, short or wearing glasses – this bundle will be comfortable and give you great views.

According to one reviewer, these binoculars offer clear and sharp images of the moon’s mountains and craters as well as the Milky Way!

These binoculars also provide great views during the day too, so if you’re a bird watcher or love looking at daytime wildlife then these are suitable for that too.

Pros:

• Tripod and binoculars
• Bright views no matter where you live
• Suitable for daytime and nighttime viewing
• Adjustable tripod
• 15 x magnification for close up views
• Portable
• Built in spirit level on the tripod
• Binoculars come with a carry case, neck strap and eyepiece caps

Cons:

• Can sometimes fog up
• Focusing knobs are stiff

Best Dobsonian/Stargazing Telescope For UK Beginners

Skyquest XT4.5 Dobsonian Telescope Kit
(Check Orion’s Price)

When looking for a good telescope, you should always take note of the aperture. This is the size of the light-gathering lens or mirror – the larger the aperture, the more you’ll be able to see and with better clarity.

Dobsonian telescopes have these characteristics and are best for deep-sky observation of distant galaxies and bright nebulae.

You should look for apertures of at least 70mm if you want a good view of the night sky.

The Orion SkyQuest XT4.5 Classic Dobsonian Telescope Kit is a good value bundle.

The telescope, with its 114mm aperture and 900mm focal length, collects 260% more light than a typical beginner refractor telescope to give you amazing views of planets, nebulas, lunar craters and galaxies.

The 6×26 correct image finder scope makes it easier to aim the telescope at certain objects.

Then, once you’ve found something of interest you can choose your magnification setting with the 2 included Sirius Plossl eyepieces. One is a 25mm that gives 36x power magnification and the other is a 10mm for a whopping 91x magnification.

The telescope itself is easy to set up and balance with the CorrecTension springs that allow for complete motion control.

Once the tube is attached to the base, the springs keep it in place so no dismantling is needed. One of our family friends in London keeps this by the window so they don’t have to set it up every time a clear night comes along.

The telescope and base can be carried as a unit with the handle, and it’s really lightweight, weighing just 17.6lbs altogether.

This makes it easy to move to better viewing spots, whether that’s your back garden or somewhere else entirely as you can just pick up the telescope and go – no need to faff around building it and then dismantling it!

One reviewer commented that this model is the ultimate grab-and-go scope, with excellent views of both bright stars and planets.

This particular model also comes with a Starry Night Special Edition software download that allows you to explore the night sky with realistic simulations when the weather means you can’t use your telescope.

This software will also help you to understand what it is you’re seeing when using the telescope and can also help you plan your observations, which is helpful for beginners who may not be as knowledgeable. It also maintains interest when there isn’t a clear night.

Using the software in conjunction with the telescope can be a great way to get the kids involved and teach them about space!

Pros:

• Collects 260% more light than a typical beginner telescope
• Correct image finder
• 2 x eyepieces
• Lightweight
• Portable
• Built in Navigation knob
• Free Starry Night Special Edition software download

Cons:

• Can be difficult to assemble alone
• Font on software is a bit small to read

Best Reflector Telescope For Beginners in the UK

Spaceprobe Equatorial Reflector Telescope
(Check Orion’s Price)

Reflector telescopes have a primary mirror inside the open tube that reflects the light onto a smaller secondary mirror, which then reflects the light back to the eyepiece.

This type of telescope allows for a much larger aperture size than those available with a refractor telescope.

This Orion SpaceProbe 130ST Equatorial Reflector Telescope is designed for beginner/intermediate stargazers and has a huge 5.1” (129.54mm) aperture that gathers enough light to see celestial objects deep in the night sky.

This telescope is compact, weighs just 27lbs and has a smaller tube compared to the standard model making it easy to move.

It comes with 2 eyepieces so you can search for celestial objects and then look in closer detail, and also has a 6×30 finderscope to accurately aim the telescope at an object of interest.

Once aligned, have a look through the finder scope and centre the crosshairs on the object, look back through the telescope and the object that you want to see will be in perfect view!

This model also comes with a tripod mount that allows you to track things as they move across the sky so you can see moving targets like comets in all their glory.

The tripod is adjustable and includes an accessory tray so wherever you decide to set it up you can ensure that you’ve got everything that you need with you with ease of access.

One reviewer said that the mount is extremely sturdy and that the optics are easy to adjust, allowing them to see the Andromeda galaxy, Jupiter’s moons and Saturn’s rings!

Pros:

• Portable and lightweight
• 5.1” aperture
• Finder scope
• 2 x eyepieces
• Quick to set up
• Included tripod with accessory tray
• Starry Night Special Edition software download

Cons:

• Vague instructions, although people have said that it’s still easy to put together despite this

Where’s The Best Place To Buy A Telescope In The UK?

When it comes to buying a telescope, yes, you guessed it – you get what you pay for. You’ll likely have to spend a bit more in order to get something decent.

Opting for a cheaper option probably won’t allow you to see much more than the moon, and will have low aperture and magnification levels – so if you’re serious about getting into astronomy then you should opt for something that’s going to be worth your while.

It’s best to buy from a reputable buyer that is an expert in the field and offers great customer service, such as Orion. You’ll have noticed that I recommend all their products here and there’s a good set of reasons why.

Orion has been selling telescopes since 1975, so you can be assured that they really know their stuff.

On their site, each telescope has a recommended user level such as Beginner, Intermediate etc along with a plethora of information in regards to what to look for in a telescope and how to choose one that suits your needs.

They have an online chat experience that allows you to speak to an expert and ask any questions that you may have to ensure that you are informed before you purchase anything.

Amazingly, they also offer a 30-day money back guarantee if you are not entirely happy with your telescope.

Just Want a Cheap, Basic Telescope?

If you want ‘cheap and cheerful’ and you’re on a very low budget then you can still use sites such as Amazon to get a Telescope – though bear in mind Orion are an independent British company and it’s good to support them! However, they don’t stock the very cheapest end of the market.

If you’re just looking for a simple telescope gift for someone, who perhaps isn’t yet into astrology but you think they might enjoy it then something like the National Geographic 50/600 AZ may be a better option.

It comes with a mount and tripod and has magnification up to 100x that allows you to see the moon clearly.

Bear in mind that going for something like this probably isn’t suitable for more serious stargazers, and instead can be more of a ‘fun’ gift or a way to spark an interest in children!

Then again, if they do lose interest or break it then you haven’t spent as much!

After reading this article, I hope I’ve given you some insight into what’s best in the perfect beginner’s telescope.

There’s no doubt that after a little research you’ll find one that suits you and be in awe of the wonders of the night sky above us, there’s just so much to discover than you can see with the naked eye!